Polokwane ex-cop's brother arrested in alleged murder-for-money ring
A 53-year-old man, Leshweng Johannes Shokane, has appeared in the Polokwane Magistrates’ Court in connection with a series of insurance-related murders.
Image: Supplied/NPA
Police have arrested a 53-year-old man in connection with an alleged murder-for-money scheme in Polokwane.
Leshweng Johannes Shokane, faces multiple charges, including nine counts of murder, money laundering, receiving proceeds of unlawful activities, and defeating the ends of justice, alongside his sister, former police officer Rachel Raesetsa Shokane Kutumela, Annah Shokane and Madjadji Flora Shokane. Rachel previously worked at the Senwabarwana Police Station.
The National Prosecuting Authority's Mashudu Malabi explained that Shokane was arrested on Tuesday and will remain in custody pending his bail hearing on November 18.
According to Malabi, it is alleged that between 2013 and 2022, Rachel and Annah fraudulently took out life and funeral insurance policies for several victims, later claiming payouts totalling approximately R10 million as beneficiaries.
"The payouts were made by several service providers, including ABSA, Standard Bank, Capitec, Hollard, Assupol, Old Mutual, One Life, and Clientele," Malabi added.
The accused allegedly shared the unlawful proceeds with Madjadji and Johannes.
Former Sergeant Rachel Shokane Kutumela
Image: Screenshot
The NPA said that the State has brought an application to join Johannes to the main case involving the other three accused. The trial of Rachel, Annah, and Madjadji has been transferred to the Polokwane High Court, where the trial is ongoing.
The accused will remain in custody until then.
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